Quantitative evaluation of coronary arterial stenosis using 16-slice multidetector-row computed tomography: Preliminary evaluation of phantom study

Objective: The purpose of this study is to consider the possibility of quantitative evaluation of coronary arterial stenosis by using 16-slice multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT). Methods: Simulated coronary arteries were prepared, which consist of 5-mm-diameter acryl tubes with contrast media (270 HU). Simulated stenoses of known density (-33 HU) were created in each coronary artery (25%, 50%, and 75%). Cardiac pulsating with 0, 50, 65, 85, and 105 beats per minute (bpm) was performed. Multiplanar reformation images for each coronary artery were created. Percent stenosis was calculated using the width middle value of boundary part of the arteries. Results: The stenoses were depicted in all heart rates. Average percent stenosis ± standard deviation was 27.4 ± 3.6%, 45.8 ± 2.6%, and 69.4 ± 2.7%, respectively. For each percent stenosis, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Sixteen-slice MDCT has a potential for noninvasive quantitative evaluation of stenosis in coronary arteries.